Il Barbera
The Barbera grape from the Region on Piedmont in North West Italy, is the third most planted grape in Italy. It is renowned for producing good yields, being high in acidity and low in tannins making the wine taste ‘juicy’. It brings out the contrasts of tasting both like a rich wine whilst being light bodied. This is due to the dark staining pigments in the wine that dye the wine to a bright but deep red garnet colour where the taste has notes of strawberry and then sour cherry after a period of oak ageing.
This Barbera Superiore (requirement is a minimum of 12 months in oak) is matured on its lees in stainless steel tanks, undergoing periodic batonnage or stirring. It is aged in French oak barrels for 20 months to add additional flavourings and to round off the lower tannic content. The nose has complex aromas like strawberry, jamminess, ink, black pepper spice, cloves and chocolate. Whilst the tannins are mellow they are still noticeable but the pleasant acidity shines through in the excellent structured balance.
It is a good accompaniment to a wide range of foods especially if more acidic but can be served throughout a meal. It is good with duck.
Alcool: 13,5%